Drug regulator issues alert on sale of unauthorised Pakistani whitening creams in India

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued an alert on the use of unauthorised cosmetic products manufactured in Pakistan, which are on sale in India.

A public notice dated September 8, 2026, stated that cosmetic products named ‘Goree Beauty Cream’ and ‘Chandni Whitening Cream’ are unauthorised for sale and no trade registration certificate was issued to the manufacturers.

“To manufacture cosmetics for sale and distribution, a licence must be obtained from the State Licensing Authority... For the import of cosmetics, the products must be registered with the Central Licensing Authority in accordance with prescribed rules,” the notice said.

The products are unauthorised and contain excessive levels of heavy metals beyond the specified limits, which may pose health risks to consumers, including toxic effects, said CDSCO.